Cardiovascular Disease in Women
Despite being widely associated with men, heart disease is just as dangerous for women, often going undiagnosed due to different symptoms and risk factors. Understanding these risks and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of heart-related complications.
How Heart Disease Affects Women
Women experience unique risk factors and symptoms when it comes to heart disease. Compared to men, women often develop heart disease later in life, with different warning signs and less obvious symptoms.
Additionally, women are more prone to conditions like:
- Diastolic heart failure (heart failure with preserved ejection fraction)
- Pregnancy-related heart complications (e.g., gestational diabetes, preeclampsia)
- Stress-induced heart conditions (e.g., Broken Heart Syndrome)
These differences highlight the importance of awareness, early detection, and lifestyle adjustments to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
Many assume that a heart attack always presents as severe chest pain, but in women, symptoms can be more subtle or mistaken for other conditions. While chest pain remains the most common symptom, women are also more likely to experience:
- Shortness of breath (even without chest pain)
- Nausea, vomiting, or dizziness
- Pain in the back, jaw, or neck
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Cold sweats
Early Warning Signs of a Heart Attack in Women
Some women experience prodromal symptoms (early warning signs) weeks before a heart attack, including:
- Unexplained fatigue
- Heart palpitations
- Frequent indigestion or stomach discomfort
- Sleep disturbances
- Tingling or numbness in arms or hands
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Early detection and treatment can prevent complications and save lives.
Heart Failure in Women
Heart failure occurs when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the body. Although heart failure affects both men and women, women tend to experience more symptoms and a greater impact on daily life.
Symptoms of Heart Failure in Women
- Shortness of breath during activity or while lying down
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
- Rapid weight gain from fluid buildup
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat
Women with heart failure are also more likely to report depressive symptoms and a lower quality of life, making emotional and psychological support essential in managing the condition.
Key Risk Factors for Heart Disease in Women
While many risk factors apply to both men and women, some are particularly concerning for women:
1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- More common in women over 60.
- Poorly managed blood pressure significantly increases the risk of heart failure, stroke, and kidney disease.
- Post-menopause, women become more sensitive to sodium, making low-salt diets essential for heart health.
2. High Cholesterol
- Low levels of HDL (“good cholesterol”) are more dangerous for women than for men.
- High LDL (“bad cholesterol”) contributes to artery blockages, leading to heart disease.
3. Diabetes
- Women with diabetes are 2-4 times more likely to develop heart disease than men with diabetes.
- Gestational diabetes (during pregnancy) increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and heart disease later in life.
4. Smoking and Secondhand Smoke Exposure
- Women who smoke are 3 times more likely to suffer a heart attack than men who smoke.
- Secondhand smoke also significantly increases heart disease risk.
5. Obesity and Physical Inactivity
- Two-thirds of Malaysian women are overweight or obese.
- Belly fat is particularly dangerous, increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Lack of exercise is a major contributor to heart disease among women.
6. Pregnancy-Related Conditions
- High blood pressure, preeclampsia, or gestational diabetes during pregnancy significantly increase long-term heart disease risk.
Preventing Heart Disease in Women
Take Control of Your Heart Health
The good news is that 80% of heart disease cases are preventable with lifestyle changes and regular screenings.
1. Get Regular Heart Screenings
- Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar regularly.
- Consider a Heart Screening Package for a comprehensive heart health assessment.
- Check your heart age with our Heart Health Assessment to understand your cardiovascular risk better.
2. Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Reduce sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars to maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
3. Stay Active
- Engage in moderate exercise for at least 150 minutes per week.
- Activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can improve heart health.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
- Avoid all tobacco products and exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Limit alcohol intake to moderate levels to reduce heart strain.
5. Manage Stress and Sleep Well
- Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing.
- Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to reduce heart disease risk.
6. Know Your Family History
- If heart disease runs in your family, start screenings earlier.
- Consult a specialist to develop a personalised prevention plan.
Take the First Step Towards a Healthy Heart
Heart disease is a silent threat that many women underestimate. By understanding your risk factors, recognising symptoms early, and making lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing heart disease.
Book a Heart Screening Today!
Early detection saves lives. Visit our Heart & Lung Centre or consult a Cardiology Specialist to assess your heart health.
Taking care of your heart isn’t just about adding years to your life—it’s about adding life to your years. Start prioritising your heart health today!
